Public-policy push

RALEIGH, N.C. [03.08.04] — United Way of North Carolina is stepping up its role in helping to shape public policy.

The statewide group initially will focus its public-policy efforts on expanding throughout the state the 211 referral and volunteer phone line now available in the Triangle, Triad, Charlotte and Asheville areas, and on increasing affordable housing for homeless individuals, particularly women and children.

The group also will work with the chief professional officers and boards at 10 local United Ways to help them play a stronger public-policy role.

“United Way is not just raising money and not just funding members agencies but working with other groups in the community to address human service issues,” says Craig Chancellor, president of Triangle United Way and co-leader of the statewide public-policy initiative.